My five year old Border Terrier, Annie has developed a discoloured(black) nipple which is causing her some irritation. There is no swelling, discharge or obvious discomfort but she is continually scratching herself and consequently is now very red in this area. Please does anyone have any suggestions as to what the problem may be or should I just consult my vet at once. Thank you!

Go to the Vet, a friend of mines bitch had a nasty abscess, it seems these are worse in non lactating bitches. If it is bothering her then it wants looking at!!

I would take your bitch to the vet asap, if she is scratching at it, it is obviously causing her pain, BT's are notoriously stoic little dogs and for her to display pain symptoms, it must be irritating her a lot. How long ago was she in season, she may be having a phantom pregnancy in which case it could be a form of mastitis or as brainless says an abcess. In either case she needs treatment.

If you need any further help please post again or e-mail me privately. I am a breeder of Border Terriers.

Let us know how she goes.

Dazzle

Thank you so much for your advice. We are taking Annie to the vet this evening and I will let you know what he recommends.

Dear Dazzle,

Our vet was not really sure as to the root of Annie's problem. He has given her a two week supply of anti-biotics, although her temp. is normal and a steroid jab should reduce the inflammation. She does have a discharge from the nipple but the anti-biotics should clear any infection or abscess present there. Other possibilities were a skin allergy or perhaps mange as we exercise our dogs in nearby woods where there are foxes. If there is no improvement within the week we are to take her back. So it looks as if it's a "wait and see" job! Thanks again for your help.

From Shaunagh(Sloughbourne)

Glad to hear that your vet has given her antibiotics, that should clear up anything that is present. I would also suggest that bathe the area around her nipple with warm saline water that should ease her discomfort. Let us know how she goes.

Best of luck

Dazzle